PCAD™ – Certified Associate Data Analyst with Python
(Exam PCAD-31-0x)The PCAD™ certification validates the essential skills required to perform practical data analysis tasks at the junior to intermediate level in professional settings. It focuses on the full data analysis cycle – from data acquisition and cleaning, through exploration and modeling, to effective communication of insights – with Python and SQL at its core.
The PCAD certification demonstrates a candidate’s ability to collect, integrate, clean, validate, analyze, and visualize data using Python and essential data libraries like Pandas, NumPy, Matplotlib, and Seaborn. It also certifies the candidate’s ability to use SQL for querying and manipulating structured data, connect Python scripts to databases, and apply sound programming practices, including object-oriented design and exception handling.
With a strong emphasis on practical, hands-on skills, PCAD covers the application of statistical methods – including descriptive and inferential statistics – as well as foundational machine learning concepts like regression analysis and model evaluation. Candidates are also tested on their ability to communicate findings effectively using data visualization and clear reporting techniques tailored to different audiences.
PCAD equips professionals with the competencies needed to work with diverse data sources, including databases, APIs, and web content, and to perform real-world data analysis tasks reliably and ethically. Whether preparing data for analysis, building SQL queries, analyzing relationships in data, or presenting insights, PCAD holders demonstrate readiness for the demands of modern data analytics roles.
This certification independently validates key data analysis and analytics skills and also forms part of a broader learning pathway – leading to advanced credentials like the professional-level PCPD™ and supporting continuous growth in the dynamic field of data science.
Achieve PCAD™ certification and validate your professional data analysis skills
By earning the PCAD certification, you prove your ability to perform end-to-end data analysis with Python and SQL ™ giving you a competitive advantage in data-driven industries. The exam reflects real-world scenarios and tasks commonly encountered by junior-level data analysts, making it a practical stepping stone toward advanced analytics roles or further certifications like PCPD.
PCAD certification is ideal for:
- Junior data analysts looking to formalize their skills and advance their careers;
- Professionals seeking to transition into data analytics from other fields;
- Students and graduates aiming to enter the data analysis job market;
- Analysts and developers wanting to expand their expertise in Python and SQL for data projects;
- Business professionals and team leads who rely on data insights for decision-making.
Python continues to dominate the data science world, with an overwhelming 86% of data scientists reporting it as their primary language for current projects, and an additional 10% using it as a secondary language. (The JetBrains Blog) This widespread adoption is reflected in its integral role in various applications from web development to machine learning and beyond, cementing Python's reputation as a versatile and preferred tool for data-driven tasks.
The skills most in demand for data analysts include Python and SQL, highlighting the importance of these tools in managing and analyzing large data sets. Companies across various sectors are seeking professionals who can navigate complex data environments to drive decision-making and strategic business initiatives.
This strong preference for Python is also reflected in the competitive salaries offered in the field. Python data analysts and scientists can expect to earn between $50,000 (junior positions) and $130,000+ (senior positions) annually in the United States, depending on their experience, location, industry, and specific role within the field. (sources: Glassdoor, Payscale, and SalaryExpert.com) As businesses increasingly adopt data-driven strategies, the demand for proficient Python professionals is on the rise, creating a vibrant job market and presenting lucrative opportunities for those equipped with the right skills.
Python's dominance in data analytics not only underscores the value of mastering this language but also the broad spectrum of opportunities it opens up for data scientists and analysts in today’s digital economy.
Mastering Python, SQL, and data analysis techniques through PCAD™ not only opens doors to diverse career opportunities but also builds a strong foundation for lifelong learning in analytics, data science, and business intelligence.
PCAD™ Exam Information
| SPECIFICATIONS ITEM | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| Exam name | PCAD – Certified Associate Data Analyst with Python |
| Exam Code & Current Exam Versions | PCAD-31-02 – Status: Active (released July 15, 2025)
PCAD-31-01 – Status: Discontinued (retired July 14, 2025) |
| Prerequisites | No formal prerequisites. Recommended Experience: PCAP & PCED (or equivalent) + field-specific skills |
| Validity | 6 years |
| Exam Duration | 60 minutes + NDA |
| Number of Questions | 48 |
| Format | Single- and multiple-select questions, scenario-based items |
| Passing Score | 75% |
| Languages | English |
| Cost | Exam – from $195
|
| Delivery Channel | OpenEDG Testing Service (TestNow™) |
| Testing Policies | PCAD Testing Policies |
| Exam Syllabus | PCAD Exam Syllabus |
| Associated Certifications | Entry: PCED – Certified Entry-Level Data Analyst with Python
Professional: PCPD – Certified Professional Data Analyst with Python |
| Free Learning Resources |
OpenEDG – PD101: Python for Data Analytics 101 (Status: In development) Cisco Networking Academy – We recommend beginning with Introduction to Data Science to build a strong foundation, then progressing to Data Science Essentials with Python and Data Analytics Essentials (modules 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 9, and 10) to apply those concepts using Python and database technologies. |
| Practice Tests | The PCAD-31-02 Practice Tests are available for purchase in the OpenEDG Store. |
PCAD FAQ and Quick References
- Read the PCAD Testing Policies and TestNow specifications to make sure you follow the code of conduct, meet all the technical requirements, and know what to expect during your exam session.
- Create a Test Candidate account if you haven't already done it. (Download a PDF Tutorial)
- Go to OpenEDG Voucher Store and buy an exam voucher. You can choose between a single-shot voucher, voucher with retake, and voucher + practice test bundle.
- Log in to your test candidate account, enter the voucher code, perform a diagnostics check, check in, and launch your exam session. (Download a PDF Tutorial)
You can only retake a failed exam after 15 days of your last attempt (waiting period).
If you purchased a voucher with a free retake option and failed your exam – wait 15 days, go to the Exam History section on your Test Candidate account, and click the Get Free Retake button that will become activated next to your exam session status information. Your exam voucher will automatically be assigned to your account and become available in the Certify section.
If you purchased a single-shot voucher and failed your exam, you need to purchase a new voucher to take the exam again. You can launch a new exam session after 15 days from your last attempt.
Here's what you need to do to access the official Python Institute PCAD practice tests:
- Go to OpenEDG Voucher Store and buy a practice test voucher. (skip this step if you already have a voucher)
- Log in to your OpenEDG Learner Account, click "Practice", enter the voucher code, read and accept the terms and conditions, and activate the practice test. (Download a PDF Tutorial)
Note that if you're logged in as Test Candidate, you need to switch your role to Learner in order to be able to launch the practice test.
Congratulations! You’ve officially joined the Python Institute certified community and earned an industry-recognized credential that validates your advanced skills in Python programming, data analytics, and applied data science. Within 24 hours of completing your exam, you’ll receive an email containing a link to your digital certificate, verification code, and your official PCAD badge issued through Credly’s Acclaim platform. Share your achievement proudly with peers, colleagues, and employers on LinkedIn and other professional networks.
What’s next? While the PCPD™ – Certified Professional Data Analyst with Python certification is currently in development, you can continue to expand your professional portfolio by pursuing one of the specialized Python Institute certification paths — such as Python for Automation or Python for Artificial Intelligence. Each pathway will help you apply your Python and data analytics expertise to new domains, advance your technical capabilities, and strengthen your career prospects in the rapidly evolving field of intelligent and automated systems.